How to live victoriously in a time of instability and volatility?

The Lord says: 

"These are times of instability and volatility. Things are going to swing violently and unexpectedly in the coming months, and in ways that can confound and surprise even the smartest of brains. But as for you, My beloved, do not get overly carried away by emotions. Keep calm. Do not be anxious and do not panic, no matter what you see or what you hear in the world around you. Instead, be filled with My peace that surpasses all understanding." 

I also heard these words: "Play the long game!" Imagine a straight path ahead towards the horizon. Do not just look at the present or short term. Look at what's at the horizon. Look at the long term. Look to the Lord who is sovereign and in control. He sees the end from the beginning. Be patient. Trust that the Lord knows what He's doing in your life, and even in the world around you. That's what "play the long game" means. 

There's no doubt the world around us is changing, and changing fast. In fact, there's going to be acceleration of changes, and many things are going to happen suddenly. But fear not. Keep trusting in the Lord and keep looking to the Lord. Do not panic. Ask for the wisdom from God. Ask, and you shall receive. Ask for the leading, direction, and guidance of the Holy Spirit. 

How do you prepare in a time of instability and volatility? How do you live victoriously in such a time? First of all, receive the peace that comes only from God! 

Now, this peace from God is not just peace per se, as in the dictionary. This peace encompasses many aspects of your life. It is a big word. This peace is 'shalom' in Hebrew. Peace in every sense of the word 'peace'. It includes your safety, your wellness, your wholeness, your welfare, and even your health. So, it is not just a state of being safe and secure. But also, it is having the assurance that the Lord is still in control and the Lord is sovereign, and the Lord knows what He is doing in your life. 

In John 14:27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." 

You see, nothing can take away this peace that's inside of you. This peace that comes only from the Lord. This peace that the world cannot give. This peace is greater than any turbulence outside of you in this world, or whatever disturbing news you hear in the world. 

Just one verse before that, in John 14:26, Jesus says, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things I said to you." 

Indeed, He has given us the Holy Spirit. And the Lord is saying to you that it's not too late yet, if you heed the Lord now. Obedience is the key. Change, when He asks you to change. Change how you see things. Change how you approach things. Move as He moves. Stop as He stops. When He says so, you say so. When He says no, you say no. Listen to the Holy Spirit that's inside of you. 

Listen to the "peace" or "un-peace" that's inside of you. Follow the peace of the Holy Spirit. And heed His warnings. And that's how you will never go wrong. Why? Because the Holy Spirit will never go wrong. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of all truth, and He is all-knowing. 

So you see, obedience is the key. Obedience to what? Obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Flow with the Holy Spirit. Not just listen to those who claim or seem to be knowledgeable. Now, there's a place, of course, for the professionals. But they are just humans. They can be wrong too. They can predict wrongly too. But the Holy Spirit in you will always speak the truth. That is the difference. 

Isaiah 26:3-4 says, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for in YAH, the LORD, is everlasting strength." 

God can keep you in perfect peace when your mind is stayed on Him, and when you trust in Him. That's what the Scripture says here. So, no matter what happens outside of you in the world, you can still trust in the Lord who is your everlasting strength. He will keep you in perfect peace. He is your everlasting strength. The strength that cannot be shaken. 

The word 'peace' here (or 'shalom' in Hebrew) comes from this word 'shalam' in Hebrew. It literally means 'to be completely and unquestionably safe and secure'. Completely and unquestionably safe and secure in Him! 

Beloved of God, what are the 'storms' that you may be facing at the moment? It may be your health. It may be financially. It may be in any area of your life. But take heart, because whatever the 'storm' may be, if your mind is stayed on YAH, the LORD, this peace (or 'shalom') will rule and reign in you and in your situation. And I want to declare by faith that this peace inside of you will drown out all those "storms"! However big these "storms" seem to be! 

Is it a health storm? Is it a financial storm? Is it a storm in your relationship or in your family? Is it a storm in your business? Is it a storm in your city, your nation, or even in the world? But I tell you what, the Lord is greater. The Lord is greater than whatever that is in the world. The Lord is greater than whatever the enemy throws at you. And as you receive this peace, this shalom peace deep inside of you, there will be such calmness and assurance that only the Lord can give. Now that's what Isaiah 26:3-4 mean here. 

Remember, in the midst of the storm, Jesus said, "Peace, be still." And you know what? The storm was calmed. The violent waves ceased. And the boat He was in sailed safely to the destination. And that's what the Lord is saying to you as well. You will sail safely to your destination, and you will fulfill all of God's plans and purposes for your life, your destiny! Amen!

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Receive peace in the midst of the 'storm'

The Lord says: 

"Receive My peace in the midst of the 'storms'. Look to Me, no matter what you are going through or what you see happening in the world around you. For I am still in control. I am a sovereign God. My perfect will be done. Be not shaken. Be afraid not. Be anxious not. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you." 

No matter what 'storm' you may be facing at the moment, be it 'storm' in your family, 'storm' in your health, 'storm' in your finance, 'storm' in your workplace, or whatever 'storm' you may be facing, take heart, because the Lord is releasing His peace upon you and inside of you. 

In John 14:27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." 

No one and nothing can take away this peace of the Lord from you. The peace that the world cannot give to you, but that comes only from the Lord. This peace stays in you. This peace reigns in you. This peace is greater. This peace overcomes whatever 'storm' or 'turbulence' that's happening in and around you. Amen! 

Isaiah 26:3-4 says, 'You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.' 

If your mind is stayed on the Lord, He will keep you in perfect peace. So, no matter what you may be facing, trust in the Lord who is your everlasting strength. What does 'everlasting strength' mean here? It means He is like the Rock that cannot be shaken. Ever! He is the Rock of all ages - in times past, now, and forevermore. Amen!

So, set your mind on Him, and let your mind stayed on Him, instead of on the issues or troubles around you. 

The word 'peace' here is 'shalom' in Hebrew. So, 'perfect peace' means 'perfect shalom'. This word 'shalom' can mean 'peace (in every sense of this word), safety, wellness, wholeness, welfare, health, prosperity, favor'. As you can see here, it has a broad meaning. 

This word 'shalom' comes from the word 'shalam' in Hebrew, meaning 'to be completely safe and secure'. You know what this means? This means the peace of the Lord that you receive from Him makes you completely safe and secure, no matter what the 'storm' may be around you! 

By the way, when we say 'storm' here, it means 'anything that is disturbing', 'anything that is troubling', or 'anything that is tumultuous'.

What are the 'storms' around you at the moment? What are the 'storms' that you are facing at the moment? 

Look to the Lord. Receive His shalom peace. Receive His perfect peace. Set your mind on Him. And trust in Him that He is still in control, and He will somehow work things out for you. Amen!

Philippians 4:6-7 says, 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' 

What is the meaning of 'peace which surpasses all understanding' here? It means 'peace that goes beyond what the human mind can fully grasp or comprehend', or 'peace that transcends any rational thought and emotional turmoil'. 

And whenever you see no peace around you, what do you do? Pray! Pray the perfect will of God over the situation. Pray that the peace of the Lord will reign over the situation. Yes, pray even for the situation that you see in the world, that God's perfect will be done. Amen! 

Philippians 4:8-9 says, 'Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, this do, and the God of peace will be with you.' 

The word 'meditate' here is 'logizomai' in Greek, and in the context here, it means 'to think the same (as how God thinks)'. In other words, think as He thinks. Think the way He wants you to think. Think the way the Scripture teaches you to think. Be of the same mind with His mind! Be on the same wavelength with Him! 

This word 'meditate' here can be a cross-reference to Isaiah 26:3 that says you will have perfect peace if your mind is stayed on Him, and you trust in Him. Trust in Him that He is still in control. Trust in Him that He knows how to work things out for you. Indeed, He has the solution to all your situation!

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Peace inside you that cannot be shaken

The Lord says for this time: 

"No matter how turbulent the world around you may be, or what bad news you hear around you, let not your heart be troubled or afraid. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. This peace inside you cannot be shaken. This peace inside you is My perfect peace. This peace inside you will overcome the chaos or storms outside you. This peace inside you is the peace that surpasses all understanding." 

You may ask: "What is 'the peace that surpasses all understanding'? What does this mean?" 

Philippians 4:7 (NKJV) says, 'And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' 

There are many things in life that we don't know or understand. But one thing for sure is we know we can put our trust in the Lord, no matter what happens around us. Just by knowing that He is with us and in us, gives us such peace and assurance. Just like a child to a good father. The child feels secure just by knowing that the father is around. The same it is with us and our Heavenly Father. When the world look at us, it just boggles their mind how we can have this kind of peace and assurance inside of us. And that's why this peace surpasses all human understanding and minds. 

Let's look at the Amplified Version now. 'And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].' 

This peace reassures your heart. This peace transcends all human understanding. This peace stands guard over your hearts and your minds. 

You see, at one time or another, we hear of bad news, disturbing news, or disheartening news; whether from friends, in the social media, or from the news channels. Or sometimes we face turbulence, storms, or chaotic situations in life. This can happen in the course of your work, in your career, in your business, in the ministry, or in other areas of life.

No matter what happens or what you hear, remember this, that the Lord loves you, and His peace He leaves with you and His peace He gives to you. 

Jesus says in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." 

I like the Amplified Version here. "Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]" 

See the words 'perfect peace' here? What is this 'perfect peace'? 

Let's cross-reference to the book of Isaiah now. Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV) says, 'You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.' 

So, trust in Him. Trust in Him for who He is. He is everlasting. He is our Rock and Salvation. He is the Lord who gives us perfect peace and assurance. And in Him, we have security, no matter what happens in the world around us.

The word 'perfect' here is 'shalem' in Hebrew. It can mean 'full, whole, complete'. This word 'shalem' comes from the word 'shalam', which means 'to be safe, to be complete'. 

How about the word 'peace' here? It is 'shalom' in Hebrew. Notice this word has a broad meaning. It can mean 'safety, wellness, wholeness, welfare, health, prosperity, favor'. By the way, this word 'shalom' also comes from the same word 'shalam', meaning 'to be safe, to be complete'. 

Therefore, 'perfect peace' in Hebrew is 'shalem shalom'. Both words come from the same word 'shalam'. Double shalam! So, as you put your trust in the Lord and let your mind stayed on the Lord, He will keep you in 'shalem shalom'. And you know what this means? Perfect peace inside of you and outside of you! Spiritually and physically!

Where's the proof? 

Look here at Mark 4:35-39. You know that Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He is peace of God manifested or demonstrated on this earth. And this peace inside of Him could even calm the storms outside of Him!  

'On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, "Let us cross over to the other side." Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on the pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.' 

You see here? Peace in the inside of Him emanated out to the outside, and it even calmed the physical storm and the physical waves! 

Beloved of God, this same peace of God in Jesus is now inside of you. So, be afraid not and be anxious not, no matter what you see or what you hear outside of you. The Lord is still in control, and the Lord is sovereign. Let Him take over. Let this peace of the Lord rule and reign in your heart and in your mind.

Maybe you have been facing some 'storms' recently. Maybe it's at your workplace. Maybe it's in the ministry. Whatever 'storm' you may be facing at the moment, let the Lord take over, and let the Lord fill you with His 'shalem shalom'. He will know how to turn things around for you. He will know how to make a way where there seems to be no way. 

Not just that. You also have this peace and assurance inside of you that He deeply loves you. You are His beloved. In other words, you are deeply loved by the Lord. And you know what? This perfect love of God inside of you casts out fear. That's in 1 John 4:18. 

We shall go to Song of Songs (or Song of Solomon) 2:1. The king says: I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. Song of Songs 2:4. The Shulamite woman says: He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. 

Now, 'banqueting house' here means 'banquet hall', the place where you dine. And 'banner over me' here means 'surrounding me, and in this context, with His love'. 

Song of Songs, or Song of Solomon, another name for this book, is a beautiful book of love between a man and a woman, written by King Solomon himself. It is a 'picture' of God's love for you, His beloved. Jesus is the Lover of your soul. Jesus is the Lover of who you are. 

There's a reason why this book Song of Songs is included in the Scripture. 

There are three main entities in this book:

1. The King (speaks of God Himself). 

2. The bride, which is the Shulamite woman (speaks of you, His beloved). 

3. The chorus, which are the daughters of Jerusalem (speaks of 'the whole citizen of heaven'). 

So, that's a quick background to this book Song of Songs. 

But today, I want to point you to these expressions 'Rose of Sharon' and 'Lily of the valleys'. 

In our context here, the Lord says He is the Rose of Sharon and He is the Lily of the valleys. What do all these mean? This is what we are going to study today. 

Let's begin with Rose of Sharon. 

'Rose' speaks of 'sweetness, sweet-smelling, fragrance'. 

'Sharon' is condensed from this Hebrew word 'yashar'. See the part 'shar' here? Now, 'yashar' here means 'to make straight, to make a way, to make right, to make pleasant, to make prosperous'. 

So, Rose of Sharon speaks of Jesus is the Sweetness that makes straight your way, that makes right your way, that makes pleasant your way, that makes prosperous your way! And that's who the Lord is to you! 

Geographically speaking, the place Sharon is a land bountiful and beautiful; and the inhabitants of this land those days (the Sharonites) were worshippers of the Lord who 'make straight the way'. 

Let's look at Lily of the valleys now.

'Lily' here is 'shuwshan' in Hebrew. Like the flower, it means 'to be bright, to be cheerful, to be joyful'. This speaks of the brightness of the Lord's shining. This speaks of the joy of the Lord. And you know that the joy of the Lord is your strength. In other words, when you have the joy of the Lord in you, you have the strength to look ahead in your life, to move on in your life, and to move forward in your life. 

How about the word 'valleys' here? Notice the word 'valleys' here is plural. It means more than one valley. This speaks of 'depression, deep trouble'. Different kinds of troubles in this world. 

So, if you combine 'lily' and 'valleys', 'Lily of the valleys', this speaks of Jesus is the Lord who brings joy in a time of sorrow, and He who turns your sorrow into joy. Not just that. He sets you free from your depression. He rescues you from whatever deep trouble that you have. He pulls you out from your pit. He sets you free from your bondage. He makes a way of escape for you. He makes a way where there seems to be no way. He is your Lily of the valleys! 

With this assurance of the Lord in the Scripture, there's nothing that you should be afraid of, knowing that this peace and this love of the Lord lives in you. This peace calms the storm, and this love casts out every fear!

Let us pray: 

"O Lord God, we thank You for Your words of assurance to us in a time like this. We receive Your perfect peace that calms every 'storm'. We receive Your perfect love that casts out every fear. Your Scripture says Your peace You leave with us, and Your peace You give to us. The peace that we cannot find anywhere else in the world. Your Scripture also says Your love casts out fear, and Your love for us fails not. We receive all these with gladness and thanksgiving in our hearts. Indeed, You are the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valleys in our lives. You yearn to fellowship with us and Your banner over us is love. We want to come into Your presence right now. In Your presence, we are filled with Your love and Your perfect peace. In Your presence, we are surrounded by Your love and Your perfect peace. In Jesus' name. Amen." 

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Vision from the Lord: I saw 4 shields at 4 corners!

While praying, I saw a vision of four shields at four corners protecting God's people from any form of curse words or attacks of the enemy. Each of these shields has words on it. One shield has the words YHWH Rapha. One shield has YHWH Yireh. One shield has YHWH Tsidkenu. One shield has YHWH Shalom. These four shields surrounded God's people, protecting them from all kinds of fiery darts and arrows shot from the enemy's domain. 

Indeed, this is a deep assurance for God's people who look to Him, especially in a time of chaos and turmoil like this. 

YHWH Rapha (The Lord your Healer): In spite of all the diseases or pestilences that you see in this world, even new strains of diseases, you need not fear, because you have this assurance of His divine health and healing. 

YHWH Yireh (The Lord your Provider): In spite of all the economic shakings and uncertainties that you see in this world, you need not fear, because you have this assurance of His provision in your life. He will still know how to provide for you, if you look to Him and walk in His ways and instructions for your life. 

YHWH Tsidkenu (The Lord your Righteousness): Whatever curse or ill words spoken against you, whatever attack, whatever witchcraft, and whatever work of darkness that comes against you, the Lord your Righteousness is your shield. His righteousness reigns. Your part is to stay innocent like a lamb, and your Good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, will know how to shield you and protect you. 

YHWH Shalom (The Lord your Peace): Last but not least, He is your peace. In spite of all the chaos or turmoil, on the macro level (on the world level), or on the micro level (in and around your life), the Lord is assuring you that He is your shalom peace.

The Lord then says: "Be still and know that I am God. I am your shield and your refuge. Whatever chaotic situation or toxic environment that's surrounding you at the moment, receive My shalom peace. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Nothing can take away this peace that I have given you. Therefore, let not your heart be troubled, and let not your heart be afraid." 

Beloved of God, if you are in the midst of a toxic environment around you, or you've been on the receiving end of some verbal abuse or curse words against you (and you don't even know what wrong you've done, and it's so unfair to you), this message is for you. This message will assure you. This message will comfort you. This message will set you free.

In John 14:27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." 

Psalm 46:10-11 says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.'

The word 'still' here is 'raphah' in Hebrew. It can mean 'to cease (from anxiety or worry), to find rest (in the midst of chaos or turmoil), to let go and let God'. In other words, let God be God. Your part is to be at rest and be blessed. 

Why you can be at rest and let God take over? Here's the reason. Because Psalm 46:1-3 says, 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea, though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling.' 

This may be literally, but this can also be symbolically in any area of your life. He is present right now in your life. He is not absent. He is for you. He is covering you. He is shielding you in the midst of all the chaos around you. So, whatever you may be facing right now, be it in the ministry, be it in your career, be it in the business, be it in your neighborhood, or be it in your community, the Lord is saying He is your refuge and strength, a very present help. 

Let's go all the way to 1 Kings 19:11-12. 'The Lord said (to Elijah), "Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord." And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire, a still small voice.' 

The word 'still' here is from the Hebrew root word 'damam', meaning 'in calmness, in quietness, in stillness (in spite of the noises all around you)'. The same it is for you right now. There is a still small voice inside you, speaking to you and assuring you. The Lord is saying He wants you to be at rest and receive His shalom peace, in spite of the chaos, stress, and tensions of this world. Because Jesus, the Prince of Peace, the Lord who is your shalom peace, lives in you.

When the windstorm came, Jesus said, "Peace, be still!" Mark 4:37-40 says, 'And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" Then He arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. But He said to them, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?"' 

In other words, He was saying, "How is it that you do not believe that I am the Prince of Peace, I am in control, I am Sovereign?" 

What are the areas in your life that you are going through a 'windstorm' right now? Surrender that situation to the Lord. Let go and let God. Let God take over. He reigns over that situation. Even if it seems impossible for you to find a solution right now, the Lord is saying He knows how to make a way for you, and He knows how to clear the way for you. 

No one on this earth may be able to fully understand what you are going through. But the Lord is saying right in your still small voice now, "I saw all these. I know exactly what you are going through. Surrender that situation to Me. Surrender that mess to Me. Surrender that problem to Me. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Therefore, let not your heart be anxious, and let not your heart be afraid." 

Back to Elijah's still small voice now. This still small voice inside him eventually produced in him a renewed strength and a renewed vigor. His courage was revived. His depression was gone. His calling was restored. He heeded and answered God's call again. And that's how He was able to rise up again. 

Beloved of God, like Elijah, it is the same for you today. This same still small voice is also speaking to you and assuring you right now. There's nothing in this world that He cannot solve for you. There's no burden in this world that He cannot carry for you. There's no mess in this world that He cannot clear for you. Because His peace, this YHWH Shalom, now lives in you, inside of you. Amen!

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Learning to let go

The Lord says for this time: "Cast all your cares to Me, and cast all your worries and anxieties about your future to Me. Learn to let go, and flow with Me and My timing in your life. For I know your future more than anyone else, and I have plans of peace and not of evil for you, to give you a future and a hope." 

The outlook in the whole world at the moment seems to be bleak, and everywhere in the world, many people have lost hope in human governance. They can't see any solution, and they can't see any future.

But I have a good news for you. The truth is no matter what happens around you in the world, or how bleak people may say regarding the future, you can look to God! You can look to the Lord God who knows the future more than anyone else - any learned man or learned woman, any academia, or any politician in this world. 

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) says, "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." 

Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV) says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you," says the Lord, "Thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." 

You see? God's plans and God's thoughts for you are plans and thoughts of peace, to give you a future and a hope. I know this is a very familiar verse, but the Lord wants to remind His people at the moment, that no matter what happens in this world and no matter how bleak the future may be in the eyes of the world, His future for you is bright! You've got to believe this.

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden (in other words, burdened), and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

1 Peter 5:7 (NKJV) says, 'Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.' 

Now, the word 'care' here is 'merimnah' in Greek, and it can mean 'concern, distraction, or anxiety'. 

So, cast all your concerns, anxieties, or whatever that distracts you (from putting your focus on the Lord) upon the Lord! Cast all these to the Lord. Exchange all these with the Lord. And in return, you receive His love, His joy, and His peace. These are unshakeable. Whatever that is in the world can be shaken. But all that's from heaven, all that's from Him, these are unshakeable and unfailing. His unfailing love, His unshakeable peace, and of course His unspeakable joy. Amen!

Learn to let go. There are times in life we need to learn to let go. Forgive and forget all those past hurts, betrayals, bitterness, wounds, disappointments, or certain past incidences in your life that you wish to forget, so that you can move on in life. This is your time to release and to bless. I tell you what, you will be a much happier person, going forward. Not just that. A much healthier person - spirit, soul, body! 

So beloved of God, let go of your worries and anxieties. Let go of all those past that have held you back. And of course, let go of your care or concern regarding your future - be it in your life, your career, your vocation, or even your country. Let God take over. He knows exactly what is to come, and He knows exactly how to lead you according to His perfect will for your life! 

So, what's your part then? Your part is to align with Him and commune with Him. Flow with Him. And He will know how to set the path for you. Remember, the steps of a good man (or a good woman) are ordered by the Lord. So, let the Lord order your path, going forward. Amen! He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Ecclesiastes 3:6 (NKJV) says, 'A time to gain, and a time to lose; A time to keep, and a time to throw away.' 

You see, there's a time and season to everything. I know it may not be easy to let go and let God. No one says it's easy. But if it has to be done, it has to be done. If the time comes, the time comes. Learn to let go of the past season, so that you can embrace the current season. Learn to let go of the old season, so that you can embrace the new season. This may apply in any area of your life.

For some of you, the Lord is saying it's even time for you to let go of the 'rat race' that you are in. And you know this 'rat race' isn't going to lead you anywhere. For some others, it's a time to let go of certain fame or publicity. Maybe you've been so stressed up. Maybe you are not happy anymore. Maybe for some of you, you don't even know who you are anymore. You do not know yourself anymore. Let go of whatever that the Lord wants you to let go, if that makes your life happier, healthier, and more peaceful. 

Now, different people different. For some, it's to let go of your 'rat race'. For some, it's to let go of your fame or your publicity. For some others, it's to let go of your past hurts, betrayals, disappointments, bitterness, or wounds. And of course for some others, it's to let go of your current care or concern, your anxiety, or your worry. 

I pray, beloved of God, that whatever you may be facing at the moment, whatever care or concern you may be facing at the moment, or whatever that causes you to be so burdened, God's grace will be so rich for you to let go and let Him take over. Indeed, He is here to embrace you.

You may say, "But pastor, you do not understand." Yes, I may not fully understand. But whatever your situation may be, I know that the Lord understands you. The Lord knows you more than anyone on earth knows you. So, you can put your trust in the Lord. He will know how to take it from here. He will know how to make a way for you, no matter how impossible it may seem to you at the moment. 

Now don't get me wrong. There is a place for perseverance or tenacity, of course. But there is also a place for letting go and letting God, when you know it's time to let go and let God, or when you know He already has something new for you and ahead of you. Now of course you need to discern and know the difference between when to persevere and when to let go. That's why communing with the Lord and aligning with the Lord is so important. 

Isaiah 43:18-19 (NKJV) says, "Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." 

Philippians 3:12-14 (NKJV) says, 'Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.' 

Here, apostle Paul wrote that he has learned to let go of those things which are behind him, and he has learned to reach forward to those things which are ahead of him. In other words, learning to let go of those past, in order to walk into something greater that God has in store for him. Now it is the same with us. In order for us to walk into something greater that God has in store for us, we've got to just let go of what's in our past. Do not allow what's in the past to hold you back or to stop you from embracing the new, embracing your new season, or embracing the new things that the Lord has for you. 

So, now, beloved, it is time to make that switch. Make that switch in order to be happier and healthier, be it your spirit, your soul, or your body. It's not too late yet. Make that switch! Choose God! Choose to walk in the joy of the Lord! Choose to walk in the divine health that the Lord wants to give to you! If there's any need for you to change, maybe it's a certain lifestyle change in your life, make that switch! The grace of God is super rich, super abundant for you to make that switch. And that's how you will come forth happier, healthier, and even more prosperous in your life! 

Let us pray. "O Lord God, we learn to cast all our cares to You, and cast all our worries and anxieties regarding our future to You, for You are a God who cares for us. We learn to let go, and flow with You and Your timing for our lives. You know our future more than anyone else, and indeed You have plans of peace and not of evil for us, to give us a future and a hope. In the name of Jesus. Amen."

Click here for the full message in TiC YouTube Channel

Be at rest and do not worry!

The Lord says to His people at the moment:

"Be at rest and do not worry, no matter what challenges or issues you may be facing at the moment. I am a God who is never late to come to your help, if you look to Me. I am a God who knows how to make all things work for good to those who love Me and who are called according to My purpose."

One evidence of being at rest in Him is you cease worrying. 

In Matthew 6:25-27, Jesus says, "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?"

In Matthew 6:28-33, Jesus says further, "So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."

What are the worries in your life at the moment? Let go all these worries to the Lord. There's nothing too hard for Him. With man, your situation may seem impossible to solve, but to Him, nothing is impossible. After all, He is the Creator of all the earth, the moon, the stars, the sun, and the whole galaxy, and He is still in control. He is a God who is never late to come to your help, and even if you have made a mistake in life, He will cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Hebrews 4:9-11 (NKJV) says, 'There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest...'

There are two words in Greek for 'rest' here. In 'There remains therefore a rest for the people of God', the word 'rest' here is 'sabbatismos' (from the word 'Sabbath') meaning 'rest, a type of heaven'. Indeed, to have this 'rest' ('sabbatismos') is to be in Him who is heavenly. In the heavenly realm, there is no violence, trouble, or 'unpeace'. 

And because He is the Lord of Sabbath (Matthew 12:8), if you are in Him, you are in His rest too. Remember the Bible passage about Jesus in the boat when there was a storm and the waves were beating the boat? When He awoke from His sleep, He said to the wind and the waves, "Peace, be still!", and even the wind and the waves obeyed Him (Mark 4:35-41).

The other word for 'rest' here is 'katapausis' in Greek, meaning 'rest, cease, settle down'. This is where the English word 'pause' comes from. To 'katapausis' is to cease, and this includes to cease from worrying. To 'katapausis' is also to 'settle down' (or 'be at rest'), because there's no problem, challenges, or issues in life that cannot be solved or 'settled', when you are in Him.

Even when you need to make an important decision in a new time and season, do not worry. Keep walking with Him and trusting in Him. When the time comes to make such decision, He will show you the way or what decision to make. Sometimes He would give the answer only at the very last minute or at the eleventh hour. Why? He is training you to put your trust in Him and look to Him all the way. Wait on the Lord till the answer comes. The answer will surely come. I know waiting is never easy, but waiting is just as important as doing. The Bible says, '...through faith and patience, you will inherit His promises' (Hebrews 6:12). You see, not only faith, but also patience.

The devil will always try to shake you out of your rest in the Lord. Sometimes the devil would even use people to cause you to be shaken out of your rest in the Lord. One easy way to lose your rest is when you start worrying. The devil would always try to put you in the place of worry, because when you worry, you lose your peace, your joy, and your rest. 

In John 10:10, Jesus says, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." You see, the devil (depicted as 'thief' here) would do whatever in order to steal, kill and destroy you, and that includes your peace, your joy, and your rest. 

But when you know you are in the Lord (in His 'sabbatismos' and in His 'katapausis'), the devil cannot touch you. And whatever 'storms' or 'waves' that come against you in life will never be able to 'drown' you. Amen!

Click here for the full teaching in TiC's YouTube Channel

How to respond in this time of shaking?

The Lord says,

"You are in this time when whatever can be shaken will be shaken! But My people, if you look to Me and return to My ways, you need not be afraid in this time of 'shaking'. I allowed it for a reason, so that My people, My church, My body, will come forth without wrinkle and without spot, holy and unblemished! Focus not on the enemy, but focus on Me!"

Someone asked me why does the Lord allow this time of 'shaking'? Isn't He more than powerful to zap the 'coronavirus' within just a second? Of course, He is more than powerful to do so! But why doesn't He at this point of time?

Because we are entering a time when 'whatever can be shaken will be shaken'! Be it in His church, or in the world!

For His church as a whole, Ephesians 5:26-27 (NKJV) says, 'that He might sanctify and cleanse her (i.e. His church) with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish'. 

The word 'sanctify' here in Greek is 'hagiazo', and it can mean 'to set apart, to make holy, to purify'. You see? The Lord is setting us apart, making us holy, and purifying us! Why? Because He is getting us ready for His coming, and so that He might present us to Himself a glorious church!

For the world as a whole, Hebrews 12:25-29 (NKJV) says, 'See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven." Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of those things that are made (i.e. man-made), that the things which cannot be shaken (i.e. of God, from God) may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace (i.e. rely on His ability), by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire'.

In a time like this, remember what Jesus had spoken in John 14:27 and John 16:33. Receive the peace that comes from Him, whatever happens in this world. Find your peace and rest in Him. In John 14:27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." In John 16:33, Jesus says, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

The word 'peace' in both these verses is 'eirene' in Greek, and it can mean 'be at one (with God), quietness, rest, prosperity'. Notice the expression 'be at one' here. That is to say, when you are 'enjoined' with Him, or when you are 'at one' with Him, nothing's going to be able to shake you! When you are 'at one' with Him, the Lord is your Jehovah Shalom, the Lord of peace, and in Him is perfect peace, Shalom Shalom. And because He is your Jehovah Shalom, no matter what 'chaos' you see in this world, you cannot be shaken!

Let's look at an example in the Scripture, and he's none other than Noah. In a time of chaos those days, Noah found peace and rest in the 'ark'! I know those days, it was a time of huge flood and high waves. But you know what, huge flood and high waves can come in the form of many different ways. For us, we are now faced with a very different kind of 'huge flood' and 'high waves', something so invisible to our naked eyes called the 'coronavirus'. But in the midst of all these, like Noah, you too can find peace and rest! (Genesis 6:18, Genesis 6:21-22) The 'ark', by the way, is a 'picture' of Jesus Himself!

Therefore, people of God, fear not! Look not to the left and look not to the right, but look to Him! Focus not on the virus, but focus on the Lord! Look unto Him who is the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2), the One who begins your faith and the One who completes your faith! As He is, so are you in this world. And because He has overcome (John 16:33), so will you be. In Jesus' name. Amen!

For the full preaching video, click to watch

For more information about this ministry, visit https://www.triumphinchrist.today/

God's righteousness leads to peace, quietness and assurance

Isaiah 32:17 (NKJV): The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever.

The word 'righteousness' here is 'tsedaqah' in Hebrew, which means 'rightness, rectitude (correctness), or justice', from the word 'tsadaq' meaning 'to be right, to make right, to cleanse, to clear self'. Isaiah 32 here speaks of the reign of God's righteousness, and of course, the work and the effect of God's righteousness for those who believe and walk in it.

The word 'peace' in this verse is 'shalom' in Hebrew, which encompasses 'peace, safety, wellness, wholeness, happiness, health, prosperity'. From the verse above, I can therefore say wherever and whenever God's righteousness reigns, there will be shalom peace.

The word 'quietness' here is 'shaqat' in Hebrew, which carries the meaning 'being settled, being still, or being at rest', while the word 'assurance' here is 'betach' in Hebrew, which means 'security, confidence'.

Today, in the New Covenant, this righteousness of God has been revealed through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus when He died for you on the cross (and His blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins) some 2,000 years ago. Indeed, He is in the Old (Covenant) concealed, and in the New (Covenant) revealed!

Romans 3:21-24 (NKJV) says, 'But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through redemption that is in Christ Jesus'.

In 2 Corinthians 5:21, the apostle Paul wrote, 'For He made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him'. The word 'righteousness' here is 'dikaiosune' in Greek, meaning 'justification', from the word 'dikaios', which can mean 'to be innocent, to be holy (set apart), to be justified, to be made right, to be clear'. 

Like one’s name is being cleared, the Lamb of God (i.e. the Lord Jesus Christ) who takes away your sins (John 1:29) has also cleared your name before the throne of God. Thus, you can now come boldly to the throne of grace (into His presence), that you may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16), and it is by grace (not by works, or by trying to earn it) through faith (see Ephesians 2:8-9).

The Bible also says this righteousness of God is a gift for you to receive. As a believer in the New Covenant, you receive this gift (of righteousness), and that's how you reign in life through Him. Romans 5:17 (NKJV) says, 'For if by the one man's (i.e. Adam) offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ'.

Let's go back to Isaiah 32 now. The first verse says, 'Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule with justice'. This king mentioned here is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Messiah, the King of kings and Lord of lords (Psalm 45:1-7, Revelation 19:16). And because He reigns (Isaiah 32:1), you reign too! The Word of God says, 'As He is, so are you in this world' (1 John 4:17). By the way, the word 'reign' in this context means 'to have the authority, or to rule with authority', even over all the power of the enemy in this world (see Luke 10:19).

A life, a home, a ministry, a business entity, or even a nation that is filled with bickering and strife (i.e. disharmony) is the exact opposite to the promises of God in Isaiah 32:17. The only way is to return to the Lord, and allow His righteousness to reign again. That's how the shalom peace of the Lord will also return and reign again! And as a matter of fact, where there is shalom peace, there will also be prosperity! Isaiah 32:15-16 says it so aptly, 'Until the Spirit (of righteousness) is poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, and the fruitful field is counted as a forest (i.e. rich, lush greenery). Then justice will dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness remain in the fruitful field'.

Notice that things weren't good (read the verses prior to Isaiah 32:15-16), until the Spirit (of righteousness) is 'poured upon us'!

May any 'wilderness' of yours be also turned into 'a fruitful field', and 'the fruitful field' is counted as a 'forest' (which speaks of 'the richness of heavenly treasures on earth'). This is my prayer for you for the rest of this year. Amen.

Isaiah 32:18-19 (NKJV) then says, 'My people will dwell in peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet ('undisturbed' in KJV) resting places, though hail comes down on the forest, and the city is brought low in humiliation'. 

People of God, be fully assured His will for you is that 'you will dwell in peaceful habitation', and to find security and refuge in Him, no matter what you see (or hear) on this earth, or no matter what happens in these last days. ‘Hail comes down on the forest’ here speaks of 'natural calamities', whereas ‘the city is brought low in humiliation’ here speaks of 'economic downturn, or political turmoil'.

The Bible says, 'If He is for you, who can be against you?' (Romans 8:31) To know that you are the righteousness of God in Him (Jesus Christ) is to know that 'God is for you'.

And because 'God is for you', you also know that you have the shalom peace, security, and quietness in Him as well - in your life, in your home, and in all that you put your hands to do. The Word of God in Isaiah 32:17 says so! Believe, and you'll have it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Receive perfect peace from the Lord

Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV): You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

The word 'perfect' here is 'shalem' in Hebrew, meaning 'full, whole, complete'. This word 'shalem' comes from the word 'shalam', which means 'to be safe, to be complete'.

How about the word 'peace' here in this verse? This word is 'shalom' in Hebrew, meaning 'safety, wellness, wholeness, welfare, health, prosperity, favor'. Notice the broad meaning of this word 'shalom' here. By the way, this word 'shalom' also comes from the same word 'shalam', which means 'to be safe, to be complete'. 

So, here you go! 'Perfect peace' in Hebrew is 'shalem shalom'! As you can see above, both these words 'perfect' and 'peace' come from this same word 'shalam'. Double 'shalam'! Dual peace! As your mind is stayed on Him (instead of on the world, or on the issues/problems of this world), God will keep you in 'shalem shalom'! That's perfect peace - both internally and externally!

Internally:
In John 14:27, Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." The Word of God says Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). This word 'prince' here is 'sar' in Hebrew, which can mean 'head, chief, ruler, keeper, lord, master, beginner, source'. Indeed, He is the 'Sar Shalom', the Source of Peace that no one in this world can give! When He gives, it is for you to receive! And when He leaves this peace with you, it is meant to stay in you! This peace stays in your spirit and your soul (i.e. your mind, will, and emotion).

Externally:
And then in Mark 4:39, in the midst of the windstorm and rough seas, Jesus said, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. This peace is also upon your physical body and the circumstances around you.

You see, that's what 'perfect peace' should be! And you have it when your mind is stayed on Him. The word 'stayed' here is pronounced 'saw-mak' in Hebrew, which simply means 'to lean upon'. This 'leaning upon' is an attitude of your mind which trusts God that His thoughts for you are always thoughts of peace ('shalom') that gives you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

People of God, continue to lean upon Him and never give up trusting Him, no matter what. He will help you if you are willing. By God's grace, you can choose to set your mind on Him, instead of the things that trouble you in this world. Colossians 3:2 says to 'set your mind on things above, and not on things on the earth', and Romans 8:5-6 says as you 'set your mind on Him (i.e. being spiritually-minded), you'll have life and peace'.

To trust Him is to put all your confidence in Him, even if there are things that you can never understand or comprehend why these happened.
To trust Him is to know that He is still sovereign and in control, despite some personal tragedies, chaos, or bad news that may have shaken you recently.
To trust Him is to look to Him and be fully dependent on Him, knowing that He is God, and we are not, and that He knows all things, even things ahead of us; 'for in Him we live and move and have our being' (Acts 17:28) and 'that all things will work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose' (Romans 8:28).

The devil will always want to 'steal, kill, and destroy' God's people (John 10:10). The devil will always want to cause doubts among God's people - doubts about God, doubts about God's Word, doubts about God's goodness, and doubts about God's grace. In other words, the devil will always want God's people to question God, God's Word, God's goodness, and God's grace. Because he knows doubts will eventually lead to loss of faith. When there's loss of faith in God, God's people will begin to walk out on Him. That's the devil's ultimate aim. That's what he did to Adam and Eve anyway (see Genesis 3:1-5), and his aim has never changed since then.

The apostle Paul understood this very well, because often times, he could have doubted God. In fact, he had every reason to doubt God or God's calling for his life. But by God's grace, he was able to keep putting his trust on his sovereign God. This is what he wrote: 'in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness' (2 Corinthians 11:23-27), yet his deep concern was only for God's things (2 Corinthians 11:28).

In the next chapter, he then wrote, 'And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities (weaknesses, i.e. dependence on God), that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities (weaknesses, i.e. dependence on God), in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong' (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

So, whatever you may be going through at the moment, you are not alone through this. We are all in this together, and the citizens of heaven are also cheering us on, as we continue to run towards the finishing line. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, 'Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin (including fear and unbelief) which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God'.

Ephesians 6:12-13 says, 'For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand'.

In the meantime, I pray 'the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus our Lord' (Philippians 4:7). This peace in you will hold you together when everything else in this world seems to be in chaos. Receive this peace from Him. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Be anxious for nothing!

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV): Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Notice the words 'in everything' here? This verse never says 'in some things', or even 'in many things', but it says 'in everything'! And notice the words 'to God' here? To put it simply, the apostle Paul (writer of the book of Philippians) actually meant, 'Don't be anxious about anything, but in everything, turn to God in prayer, in supplication, and with thanksgiving!'

Have you had a health scare recently? Or you are worried about a certain health condition in your body that the doctor had recently diagnosed. For some others, you are worried if your boss or superior will still favor you, or if your key client will still want to do business with you. Or you may be anxiously waiting for a breakthrough that seems like it takes eternity to happen - a job interview's outcome, your next career move, or even an important exams results!

Whatever it may be, Philippians 4:6 says in everything, turn to Him in prayer, in supplication, and with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to Him (instead of to man). This in turn leads to Philippians 4:7 that says 'and the peace of God, which surpasses all (human) understanding will guard (protect) your heart and mind through Christ Jesus' - the peace that no man can give, because this peace comes directly from heaven. 

Notice there are 3 parts here in Philippians 4:6 that leads to peace which surpasses all understanding:

1. ‘Prayer’, or ‘proseuche’ (pronounced 'pros-yoo-khay') in Greek, from the word ‘proseuchomai’ which means 'to worship (in total surrender), or to pray earnestly (not light-heartedly)'. ‘To pray earnestly’ in this context means 'to pray from the heart', 'to pray with the heart' or 'to pray in the spirit'. The Bible says 'praying in the spirit' is praying in the perfect will of God (see Romans 8:26-27). This in turn leads to 'all things working together for good' (see Romans 8:28). So, at times when you do not know what to pray or how to pray (or if you suddenly sense 'unpeace'), worship and pray in the spirit until you sense His peace infilling you, surrounding you, and overruling your situation.

2. ‘Supplication’, or ‘deesis’ (pronounced 'deh-ay-sis') in Greek, from the word ‘deomai’ which means 'to petition, to make request (in the language you know)'. This is where you pray in words or in language that you know; and ‘whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, you will have them’ (see Mark 11:23-24).

3. ‘Thanksgiving’, which means ‘giving thanks in advance’ as you pray. That was exactly what happened when Jesus took the seven loaves of bread and gave thanks before breaking them and giving them to His disciples in order to set them before the multitudes. On that day, those who had eaten were about four thousand (see Mark 8:1-9).

Recently, the Lord spoke these words during a time of worship and prayer:

“This is not the time to give up! This is not the time to give up believing! The enemy may try to make a comeback in your life, but because you have honored Me, I will also honor you. Keep looking to Me. Keep following Me closely. Keep fixing your eyes on Me, and everything’s going to be alright. I will never allow you to end up in a dead-end, but I will open a way out for you. As I have done for Moses at the Red Sea, so will I do for you.”

When Moses had seemingly reached a ‘dead-end’ at the Red Sea, and as Pharaoh was trying to make a ‘comeback’ (to bring God's people back into 'bondage' again), Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation (‘Yeshuwah’) of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” (Exodus 14:13-14)

The Lord later said to Moses, “… Lift up your rod and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.” (Exodus 14:16) ‘Rod’ here speaks of ‘authority’, and the Lord said ‘to use it’ (by lifting up his rod and stretching out his hand).

Just like Moses, know that the Lord has also already given you the authority over every problem you may be facing right now. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says, “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”  The word ‘authority’ here is ‘exousia’ (pronounced ‘ex-oo-see-ah’) in Greek, which means ‘delegated power, delegated influence, right, privilege, jurisdiction’.

In Mark 11:23, He says, “For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain ‘Be removed, and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” ‘Mountain’ here speaks of your ‘problem’. And notice the word ‘says’ here? Therefore, start using your authority by saying (speaking) to your ‘mountain’ right now:

“In the name of Jesus, I say to you the ‘mountain’ of …………………………………………......, be removed, and be cast into the sea!”

Let’s go back to Exodus chapter 14 now and watch how the ‘mountain’ (that's Pharaoh’s army!) being ‘cast into the sea’: ‘Now it came to pass in the morning watch, that the Lord looked down upon the army of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and cloud, and He troubled the army of the Egyptians. And He took off their chariot wheels, so that they drove them with difficulty; and the Egyptians said, “Let us flee from the face of Israel, for the Lord fights for them against the Egyptians.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the waters may come back upon the Egyptians, on their chariots, and on their horsemen.” And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and when the morning appeared, the sea returned to its full depth, while the Egyptians were fleeing into it. So the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. Then the waters returned and covered the chariots, the horsemen, and all the army of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them. Not so much as one of them remained’ (Exodus 14:24-28).

People of God, weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Believe your ‘morning’ has arrived too, whatever ‘mountain’ you may have been facing recently. Just as He was for Moses those days, know that He is also for you today! And indeed, if God is for you, who can be against you? (Romans 8:31)

No reason to fear!

John 14:27 (NKJV): "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27 is to be understood in the context of reading John 14:26 first. As a believer, the Holy Spirit in you teaches you in all things (i.e. in all areas of your life) and brings to your remembrance what He has spoken to you (or promised you). This is His assurance for you today. He hasn't forgotten what He has spoken to you (or promised you), and He will also continue to teach (and guide) you in all things. So, take heart. Aren't you glad you have a God who teaches (and guides) you continuously in all things, and a God who keeps His promises?

John 14:27 then follows. The word 'peace' here is 'eirene' in Greek, which means 'peace, quietness, rest, in one again, i.e. in harmony again'.  When you receive this peace that comes only from Him, you have no reason to be troubled or to be afraid! The word 'afraid' in this verse means 'being intimidated, or losing faith/trust', while the word 'troubled' here can mean 'being disturbed, panic, or anxious'.

Not only that, the Bible also says 'His perfect love casts out fear' (1 John 4:18). Just as a light never fails to light up a dark room (i.e. chases the darkness away), His love (for you) never fails to cast out fear (in you)! 1 John 4:18 also says, 'But he who fears has not been made perfect in love'. Just as peace is opposite to fear, love is also opposite to fear. You are made perfect in love not by 'trying hard to achieve love by your own strength', but simply by receiving His love! Romans 5:5 says, 'because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us'. When He pours out, you receive! And as you receive, this love is going to flow out from you to touch any situation (or love others).

Let's now look at Jesus, your great Lover in the book of Song of Songs. It is a beautiful book of romance (i.e. love of a man and a woman) written by Solomon. It also pictures God's love for you, His beloved. There are three main entities in this book: 
The king (speaks of God Himself);
The bride, i.e. the Shulamite woman (speaks of you); and 
The chorus, i.e. the daughters of Jerusalem (speaks of the whole citizen of heaven).
Note: 'Chorus' means 'things sung, applauded, or shouted by many people together'.

The Shulamite woman said, "For your love is better than wine" (Song of Songs 1:2). 'Wine' speaks of 'the enjoyable things on earth, or the pleasures of this world', but the Word of God says God's love is even better than all these.

Jesus is also your rose of Sharon and lily of the valleys (Song of Songs 2:1).

Rose of Sharon
'Rose' speaks of 'sweetness, or sweet-smelling', and 'Sharon' (pronounced 'Shaw-rone' in Hebrew) is condensed from the Hebrew word 'yashar', which means 'to make straight, to make a way, to make right/pleasant/prosperous'. Jesus is the Sweetness that makes straight your way.
Note: 'Sharon' is a place of blossoming, fruitfulness, bountiful, and prosperity, and the inhabitants of Sharon those days (i.e. the Sharonites) were warriors/worshipers to 'make straight the way'.

Lily of the valleys
'Lily' is 'Shuwshan' (pronounced 'Shoo-shan') in Hebrew, which means 'flower, to be bright, cheerful, joyful', and 'valleys' (notice it's plural, i.e. more than one 'valley') speaks of 'depression, or deep trouble'. Jesus brings joy in times of sorrow, and He turns your sorrow into joy.

And this is how sweet a Lover He is to you (His 'bride'). He is the 'rose of Sharon' and the 'lily of the valleys' to you! The Shulamite woman later responded, "His mouth is most sweet. Yes, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend..." (Song of Songs 5:16). Proverbs 16:24 says, 'Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul, and health to the bones'. His Word is sweet, not flatteringly sweet, but sweet to the soul, which leads to health to your body. 'Honeycomb' is 'the wax structure holding bee's honey (speaks of 'sweetness and strength') and eggs (speaks of 'new life')'. So, His Word brings you sweetness, strength, and life. Receive!

So, have no worry, not allowing yourself to fear, whether you are in the midst of a job application, family trouble, or in any form of pressure. His love for you fails not (1 Corinthians 13:8). This is not the time to allow your heart to faint, but this is the time to keep receiving His love, joy, and peace. Yes, like a river! He is your Source of love, joy, and peace. In fact, these are also the first three 'fruit' of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).

Receive His love (Romans 5:5) which is being poured out in you.
Receive His peace (John 14:27) which He leaves with you and gives to you.
Receive His joy (Nehemiah 8:10) as you 'eat the fat and drink the sweet' (i.e. take in His portion).
Note: 'Fat' is God's portion. Leviticus 3:16 says, "all the fat is the Lord's". So, eating the 'fat' and drinking the 'sweet' speaks of receiving/taking in God's portion! Indeed, there's something about eating the 'fat' and drinking the 'sweet' that makes one happy!

Notice all the words above point towards you receiving, taking in, being 'poured on', and when Someone gives, someone is going to receive, and that person is you!

Isaiah 55:1 (NKJV) says, "Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine (speaks of 'joy') and milk (speaks of 'love' and 'peace') without money and without price."

Jesus has already paid the full price when He died for you on the cross some 2,000 years ago! So, come freely to Him, and receive His love, joy, and peace! True love, joy, and peace are not something you strive to get (or strive to achieve), or even try to buy with money, but it's for you to receive directly from Him! And as you receive, the Bible says, 'you shall then go out with joy, and be led out with peace' (Isaiah 55:12). 
Note: Just like the infilling of the Holy Spirit happens first, then only you'll bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).

People of God, I declare that the worst is over! In Jesus' name. Things shall begin to look brighter and brighter for you from now on! Believe, and you'll receive. The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Just as in Nehemiah's days, the worst was over in his project of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem (in the face of opposition, mockery, and threats from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, etc), and that's when God ordered His people to 'eat the fat and drink the sweet'. Hallelujah & Amen!

Receive His shalom peace!

John 14:27(NKJV): “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”.

Notice the words ‘leave’ and ‘give’ here. Just as a good parent leaves inheritance for his/her children, Jesus says this to you, “Peace I leave with you”, and “My peace I give to you”. And when there’s this word ‘give’, there’ll be someone who would ‘receive’. People of God, receive His peace. And this peace is not as the world gives, but the ‘shalom’ peace that only Jesus can give. 

So, no matter what ‘storm’ you may be facing at the moment, know that the “I AM WHO I AM”, the ever-present God (YHWH) is in you, and everything’s going to be alright! Receive His peace (that surpasses all understanding) for your family, your ministry, your business, your career, or in any other area of your life. Remember Mark 4:37-39? There was a great storm surrounding the boat, but when Jesus, the Prince of Peace, arose and said “Peace, be still!”, the storm ceased, and all was calm again. Today, as a believer, this same Prince of Peace is in you right now, and when He is in you, again I say, "Everything's going to be alright!" He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Now let’s look at King Solomon in 1 Kings 5:3-5.

1 Kings 5:3: “You know how my father David could not build a house for the name of the Lord his God because of the wars which were fought against him on every side, until the Lord put his foes under the soles of his feet”.

1 Kings 5:4: “But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor evil occurrence”.

1 Kings 5:5a: “And behold, I propose to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as the Lord spoke to my father David”.

The Bible says Solomon had ‘peace’ on every side all around him (1 Kings 4:24). You see, David can’t ‘build’ God's house because he was a man of war, and was always fighting against the foes. But in peace and rest, Solomon could! 'Building a house for the name of the Lord' was definitely one of Solomon’s calling in his life, and the Bible says God gave him great wisdom to accomplish this ‘project’! (1 Kings 5:12)

In fact, the name ‘Solomon’ is ‘shlomoh’ in Hebrew, which means ‘peaceful’. And this word ‘shlomoh’ comes from the root word ‘shalom’, which means ‘peace, prosperity, health, rest, safe, wellness, wholeness’. In 1 Kings 5:3, notice that what David has done for Solomon is a ‘picture’ of what Jesus has done for you on the cross some 2,000 years ago! And just as David has fought all the battles so Solomon could 'build' God’s house in rest & peace, Jesus has also ‘fought all the battles’ for you on the cross, so now you have rest & peace to ‘build’ what God has called you to 'build'!

Let me reiterate this again: Because of what Jesus has done for you on the cross (His blood was shed for you, and His body was wounded for you), you can now receive His peace & you can now have rest in Him. The cross has made all the difference, and therefore, you’ll also be able to ‘build’ what God wants you to ‘build’ in your life! Hallelujah!

So, people of God, despite whatever 'storm' around you at the moment, or whatever 'bad news' you may have heard in recent days, this is the time to receive His shalom peace! Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you". Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. The devil may try to get you out of this place of 'peace & rest' so that you can’t ‘build’ what God wants you to 'build', but never allow him! Continue to stay in this place of ‘rest’! Continue to stay in this place of ‘shalom’ peace! And this can only be found in Christ Jesus, not as the world gives. Stop your striving, stop your worrying, and be at rest, be still and know that He is God, the Prince of Peace who is in you!